This MIDI controller can be played like a handpan percussion instrument

The Oval controller lets you play any sound with an interface shaped like a handpan.

The Oval – a digital instrument styled on the handpan family of percussion instruments – is now available for pre-order via Kickstarter.

First revealed last year, the instrument can be used as a traditional MIDI controller or in conjunction with a companion smartphone app. It’s controlled by a ring of pads that respond to velocity, pressure and location, allowing for a greater amount of expression than a traditional rhythm controller.

As well as letting you load any sound you want, the companion app contains weekly challenges to help novices learn the instrument as well as built-in features that allow users to share their compositions with the Oval community.

It’s available for pre-order now through Kickstarter at a price of €399 and is expected to be shipped in April 2016 – you can get a better overview in the video below and check a performance from creator Ravid Goldschmidt below. [via Synthtopia]